The CCTV inside a high-security jail in Rajasthan’s Ajmer had gone offline the day Chambal dacoit Jagan Gurjar , who faced over 100 police cases, was murdered by another inmate, the police recently told the high court.
Following the killing, the Rajasthan High Court took suo motu cognisance and raised grave questions about prisoner safety and the condition of CCTV coverage in prisons. In a hearing on August 24, the high court directed that the CCTV systems be repaired immediately. Jagan Gurjar, who made national headlines in 2008 when he allegedly threatened to blow up the residence of the then chief minister, Vasundhara Raje, was allegedly strangled with a towel by his another inmate, Vishnu. The murder happened between 11 am and 3 pm, according to the police. Jagan Gurjar was from Dholpur district and had nearly 100 police cases against him in various police stations. In June 2019, he was arrested for allegedly beating up two women and tearing their clothes. Nearly 500 policemen were engaged in the operation to arrest him.
In prior investigation, Vishnu said that Gujrar often taunted him, mocking his alleged petty theft cases and, at times, making remarks about Pankaj’s sister.
